Explain the role of lipids in our body.

Lipids serve several vital functions in the human body:

  • Energy Storage: Lipids, primarily in the form of triglycerides, are the body’s most concentrated source of energy. They are stored in adipose (fat) tissue and can be metabolized to provide energy when needed, especially during periods of fasting or prolonged physical activity.

  • Structural Component of Cells: Lipids are a major component of cell membranes, particularly phospholipids and cholesterol. The lipid bilayer of the membrane serves as a barrier, controlling the movement of substances into and out of the cell and contributing to the fluidity and flexibility of the membrane.

  • Insulation and Protection: Lipids serve as insulation to help maintain body temperature by reducing heat loss. Adipose tissue also protects vital organs by cushioning them from mechanical shocks.

  • Hormone Production: Certain lipids, like cholesterol, serve as precursors for the synthesis of steroid hormones, including cortisol, estrogen, testosterone, and vitamin D.

  • Absorption of Vitamins: Lipids are necessary for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K), which are important for various bodily functions, including immune system support, bone health, and vision.

Related Questions:

  1. Why does the reaction between atmospheric gases oxygen and nitrogen not take place under normal conditions? But during lightning, these gases react to give NO. The reaction stops as soon as lightning stops. Explain.
  2. A reaction between natural gas (CH₄) and atmospheric oxygen does not take place when you simply mix them. However, as soon as you bring a burning matchstick close, the reaction starts immediately and continues until one or both of the reactants are used up. Explain.
  3. Find out the enthalpy change of the following reaction using the given data:
  4. Explain the difference between the terms heat and enthalpy.
  5. Explain why formation of a bond is always an exothermic process.
  6. Why is it essential to cook some food items while others can be eaten raw?
  7. Why do fireworks look spectacular? What type of chemical compounds undergo chemical reactions during this activity?
  8. What is the difference between enthalpy and enthalpy change?
  9. Why is breaking of a bond an endothermic process?
  10. Depict the transition state for the following reaction: H₂ + Cl₂ ⟶ 2HCl
  11. Draw the reaction profiles for two exothermic reactions, one of which moves faster than the other.
  12. What is the role of glycogen in our body?